Global warming is a serious problem that affects all of humanity, and the tourism sector is no exception.
The rising temperature of the Earth and the melting of the poles are causing sea levels to rise. Therefore, in a few years, according to NASA predictions, water will flood some coastal destinations around the world.
Among them are these 5 beaches in Mexico.
How do we know the risk to Mexico’s beaches?
NASA (the United States’ main space agency) developed the Sea Level Projection tool, an interactive map with data from research by the United Nations (UN) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
This platform shows predictions of sea level rise over the next 75, 85, 95, 105, 115, and 125 years, if the current rate of global warming continues.
According to Sea Level Projection, 14 beaches in Mexico are at greatest risk, although five stand out, whose coastlines are projected to undergo the greatest transformation, mainly by the year 2100.
Which are the 5 Mexican beaches in danger of disappearing?
Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche
The list begins in southeastern Mexico, particularly in Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, located on Isla del Carmen, right between Laguna de Términos and the Gulf of Mexico.
It is primarily known for its oil activity, but also for the abundant natural surroundings: jungles, lagoons, mangroves, islands, and more.
NASA estimates that, over the next 75 years, sea level in Ciudad del Carmen will rise up to 0.90 meters.
Manzanillo, Colima
Manzanillo is very important to Mexico’s economy, as it is the country’s main commercial port on the Pacific Ocean, in addition to being one of the main beach destinations in Colima.
In this case, the Sea Level Projection prediction narrowly exceeds the predicted level for Ciudad del Carmen, as data indicates that the Colima port will experience a sea level rise of 0.91 meters by 2100.
However, the area could experience greater damage, as it is more prone to the impact of hurricanes and tsunamis.
Ciudad Madero, Tamaulipas
We return to the Gulf of Mexico, although now much further north, as Ciudad Madero, Tamaulipas, is the third coastal city most threatened by sea level rise in Mexico.
It is part of the Tampico metropolitan area and, like Ciudad del Carmen, is a very important city for Mexico’s oil industry, as it is one of the largest and most productive refining centers in the country.
Furthermore, the region has areas of biological value, specifically its vast lagoon system, mangroves, wetlands, estuaries, and coastal dunes.
NASA data shows that, in 75 years, this Tamaulipas city will experience a sea level rise of up to 0.93 meters.
Progreso, Yucatán
Back on the Yucatán Peninsula, we head to Progreso, Yucatán’s most important port and one of the state’s main beach destinations.
This small city (home to the world’s longest pier and a large fishing industry) is surrounded by lush nature composed of jungle, mangroves, swamps, and cenotes, home to a large variety of wildlife.
However, if climate change continues at its current pace, these characteristics will be severely affected by 2100, when the water level is projected to rise by up to 0.94 meters, according to the Sea Level Projection.
Acapulco, Guerrero
In recent years, the port of Acapulco has experienced the ravages of climate change firsthand, especially with the passage of Hurricanes Otis and John, which devastated much of this popular and classic beach destination on the Mexican Pacific.
Climate predictions do not appear favorable for the so-called “home of the sun,” known for its nightlife, luxury hotels, stunning views of the bay, and entertainment and outdoor activities.
According to NASA, sea level in Acapulco will rise by up to 1.16 meters in the next 75 years.
Source: eluniversal
